How to Write a Motivation Letter

4. Conclude your motivation letter
Write a conclusion to your motivation letter that summarizes your goal and leaves a positive final impression. You should also thank your recipient for considering your application and encourage them to contact you if they have any questions.

5. Proofread your motivation letter
Proofread your motivation letter to make it more concise and professional. Correct any spelling and grammatical errors and awkward phrasing. Edit information already listed in your application form or resume to ensure your motivation letter contains only unique information.

You may need to proofread your motivation letter several times to identify all problem areas. If time permits, complete this step two days or more after writing your motivation letter as time away from your work allows you to view it more objectively. To help ensure your letter has professional grammar and spelling, ask a trusted friend or family member to proofread your motivation letter after you.

Write an outline
Write a point-form outline noting the content of your motivation letter and its order. Write points covering the following topics:

Why you want to study the course or volunteer with the program
Your skills or qualities that will benefit the school or nonprofit
Why you are interested in the school or nonprofit organization
Think critically about whether you are including all relevant details. A motivation letter for a Ph.D. program will need more details about your experiences and specific future plans than a motivation letter for a bachelor's program, for example. Cross-reference your outline with information from the school or nonprofit organization to show you have the qualities and qualifications they are looking for. Assess your format and structure and determine whether moving points around would create a more logical flow.

Revise your outline until you are satisfied with it. You can reference your completed outline when writing your polished motivation letter to stay on track.